Goa Jazz Academy

Jazz Academy: Nurturing a New Generation of Musicians in India

Nestled in the serene village of Guirim in North Goa, Goa Jazz Academy (GJA) is fast emerging as one of India’s most forward-thinking institutions for jazz and contemporary music education. With a foundation built on mentorship, performance, and inclusivity, the academy offers both structure and freedom allowing musicians to find their voice while staying rooted in the discipline of their craft.

A Unique Musical Ecosystem

Established in 2020, GJA has created a vibrant learning environment where hobbyists, professionals, and aspiring artists from diverse backgrounds come together. What began as a modest initiative has grown into a thriving, tight-knit community of learners from across Goa, India, and abroad. The academy’s founder, guitarist and educator Karan Khosla, believes Goa’s rich musical heritage from Portuguese brass bands to ballroom swing makes it the perfect home for such a school.

More than just a classroom, GJA is a dynamic ecosystem. Students engage in weekly jam sessions, live showcases, and real-world collaborations, including performances at major events like the Serendipity Arts Festival and UNESCO’s International Jazz Day. These experiences help learners grow not only in skill but also in confidence and professionalism.

Curriculum Rooted in Performance

At the heart of GJA is its One Year Programme, a comprehensive course covering performance, theory, and improvisation. Students are immersed in ensemble playing from day one, fostering collaboration and stage experience early in their journey. The academy also offers private lessons, songwriting workshops, bootcamps, electives, and aural skills training. For those seeking formal certification, GJA aligns with the MTB grading system.

Instruction is available for a variety of instruments and disciplines, including guitar, bass, piano, drums, voice, and music production. Emphasis is placed on active learning, mentorship, and practical application, rather than rote memorization. This makes the academy accessible to musicians of all levels ranging in age from 9 to 70+ united by a shared commitment to growth.

A Teaching Philosophy That Listens First

Karan Khosla, who transitioned from a decade-long career in physics and consulting to full-time music, brings a deeply reflective and practical approach to teaching. Trained under renowned jazz guitarist Jonathan Kreisberg, his own journey informs his method—focused on listening, groove, and musical dialogue.

Karan emphasizes achievable goals, regular performance, and connecting lessons to each student’s interests. He believes the most rewarding moments come when students realize their own progress whether through a confident solo, an original composition, or joining a band for the first time.

Building a Culture of Access and Creativity

One of the academ ’s ongoing challenges is balancing high-qualit education with affordabilit and accessibilit . Yet GJA remains committed to its mission of democratizing music education while maintaining artistic integrit . The academ also pla s a role in reshaping how music is perceived in India not as an optional hobb , but as a serious, fulfilling pursuit.

Technological tools have also expanded GJA’s reach. With online lessons, digital collaboration tools, and remote performance feedback, the school bridges geographical boundaries, connecting students and instructors across cities and continents.

Looking Ahead Expanding Horizons

Goa Jazz Academy has bold plans for the future. New initiatives in development include international student exchanges, residency programs, and interdisciplinary collaborations with filmmakers and designers. The team is also working to scale its online offerings, opening doors to more learners globally.

At its core, GJA is a space for musicians to explore jazz, groove-based music, and original expression in a way that is immersive, inspiring, and deeply human. For those seeking to go beyond technical training and discover their own sound, GJA provides both the structure and the soul to make that journey meaningful.

Learn More & Get Involved

To explore programs, admissions, or upcoming events, visit www.goajazzacademy.com.

Follow their work online

Instagram: @goajazzacademy

YouTube: Goa Jazz Academy

Spotify/Apple Music: Karan Khosla

Whether you’re a beginner with a dream or a working musician read to level up, Goa Jazz Academy offers a path worth playing.